This was disappointing. The museum itself is great, well planned and for someone who has studied both English Literature and art history it was particularly interesting and I was looking forward to it... at first. Most of the guides were excellent, extremely helpful and very enthusiastic. However there was one that was very rude and ruined our entire experience with her attitude. We did come a little late so we tried to hurry as much as we could. We started at reception and worked our way up. Once we reached the top we looked at our maps and saw that there was also a basement and a garden. We asked the guide on that particular floor how we could get to the basement and her immediate reaction (she was busy showing off to another couple so apparently we interrupted this very important event) was to be very curt (and unnecessarily snobbish for some reason) and tell us that she "knew" we were going to ask that and that no we couldn't because that's not allowed and that someone should have told us that when we started. This was her reasoning (and fair enough if that's how it is) - the basement is always done FIRST because a guide needs to accompany us to the basement level as if we get stuck down there on our own no one would know. This is all fine in itself but the tone she used was completely uncalled for, almost accusing us like it was our fault that we hadn't been told this by someone at the start of our tour. (How would we even know to ask this?) If she wanted to show off to her other guests that much and show them that they were way more important than the rest of us then fine, if it brings you joy to feel so superior and be so condescending then good for you but I hope you realise what an awful impression that left for us. There is absolutely no reason to be rude to your other guests just because you deem another lot more important than them. It came across as being such an inconvenience to her that she had to speak to us, and berate us like naughty schoolchildren. Everyone I have narrated this incident to -people who live in London, academics, literature enthusiasts - have all been appalled and even angry that this was how we were treated. I will not be recommending this museum to either my fellow literature academia or my art history alumni. Do better, this was unacceptable.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The Charles Dickens Museum is a must-visit for any fan of the author's work. The museum is located in a Georgian townhouse that was Dickens's home from 1837 to 1839, and it is filled with personal artifacts and memorabilia that give visitors a glimpse into the life of one of England's most beloved writers. The museum is divided into 10 rooms, each of which is dedicated to a different aspect of Dickens's life and work. The rooms are beautifully furnished and decorated, and they are filled with original manuscripts, letters, and other artifacts. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about Dickens's writing process and his social commentary. One of the highlights of the museum is the Blue Room, which was Dickens's study. The room is furnished with Dickens's desk, his writing chair, and his library. Visitors can sit at Dickens's desk and imagine themselves writing one of his famous novels. Another highlight of the museum is the basement, which was once used as a kitchen and servant's quarters. The Charles Dickens Museum is a fascinating and informative place to learn about one of England's most important authors. The museum is well-curated and engaging, and it is sure to appeal to fans of all ages.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

It was the first time I visited Charles Dickens Museum and the thing that made my visiting experience more memorable was the fact that my English teacher of 5th grade had recommended the place to me at the tender age of 10 years; since I was very interested in Charles Dickens novels and his history. A wonderful place to visit with quite a lot to see. This is the only residence of Charles Dickens that is open to the public. There are 3 floors altogether though it's a 5 storey house from the Victorian era. We saw the dining room, the master bedroom , Mary's (his young sister -in- law) bedroom, the dressing room etc. You can also see the study where Charles Dickens wrote his first novels. I enjoyed the basement where you can see the kitchen and the scullery. I also enjoyed the attic and the children's nursery. The staff were very friendly and engaging in conversation; answering any questions I had.. a nice gift shop as well. They gave us a leaflet each which had all information regarding Charles Dickens and his family . Overall I'm very glad to have finally visited the museum after almost 17 years of knowing of it. It was such a very intimate and homely feeling being in one of Charles Dickens residences after years. I definitely recommend this place to anyone who is fond of Charles Dickens novels.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Charles Dickens Museum, and it was truly a captivating experience. As soon as I stepped through the doors, I felt like I had been transported back in time to the Victorian era, immersing myself in the world of this literary genius. The museum beautifully showcases the life and work of Charles Dickens, with fascinating displays of his personal belongings, original manuscripts, and rare editions of his famous novels. Exploring the rooms where Dickens lived and wrote was incredibly inspiring, and I couldn't help but imagine the stories that must have unfolded within those walls. The knowledgeable staff added to the experience, providing insightful commentary and answering all my questions. It was a delightful journey into the life and imagination of one of the greatest storytellers of all time. Whether you're a fan of Dickens or simply appreciate history and literature, I highly recommend a visit to the Charles Dickens Museum. It's a true gem for any literary enthusiast or curious soul seeking a glimpse into the Victorian era and the genius of Charles Dickens.
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

The Charles Dickens Museum is a joy to visit. I went last week to view the museum for my Blog and loved it. Set inside a beautiful 5 storey home, the rooms are decorated as they would have been in the Victorian era. You can see the study where Charles Dickens wrote his first novels. I enjoyed the basement where you can see the kitchen and scullery. I stopped off in the cafe for a vegetarian quiche and salad. The food in the cafe is basic but nice. You can treat yourself to a cake, scone, soup or hot drink. There is a cute garden at the back which would be nice to sit on a sunny day. This museum is perfect for anyone who enjoys the writing of Charles Dickens or if you are interested in Victorian London. It doesn't take long to look around so you can pop in and browse if you find yourself in Bloomsbury.

A beautiful and carefully curated house-museum that is definitely worth a visit if you're in London. We all know Dickens' masterpieces, but the information about his life given by the free audio-guide (available in many languages) really give you an insight that adds much to the understanding of his work. Special mention goes to his precious writing desk and chair, as well as to his own reading stand, designed by Charles Dickens himself, used by the author during social dinners with friends during which he would entertain his guests and read out loud passages from his books. Charles Dickens's personality comes to life thanks to his belongings and the audio description of each room of this beautiful Georgian house.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I visited this lovely museum with a friend a couple of days ago. I knew of it but had never visited till then. I simply loved it. It has been so beautifully done ; you can see a lot of careful planning has gone into it. I found it very interesting and learnt a lot. and I would recommend anyone with an interest in this author to come and visit. The only thing was that I felt it lacked lifts. Not everyone can climb the stairs on all five floors. But other than that ; the pickwick cafe was great too. We were able to sit outside in their beautiful garden amongst the pretty flowers and enjoy their lovely coffee. I wouldnt mind visiting again some time especially if there is a new exhibition . Great Museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

A sweet little museum about Charles Dickens’s, his work, his family and friends with a glimpse into the Victorian era. It’s divided into 4 floors via a staircase. It has a basements here one can see the kitchen and the laundry as well as the wine cellar. On the ground floor one can see the dinning room, the morning room (including the tickets office and the cafe). As one goes up the floors, bedrooms and reading rooms can be found. Top floor has the children’s room. There are toilets spread across the floors from the 1st the third and they’re very clean and tidy. On the ground floor there’s a cafe and a gorgeous courtyard. Staff could be more welcoming and helpful. It’s not disabled accessible. Overall a positive experience

I highly recommend coming here! It was very cool to see Charles Dickens actual house. It literally has the real Dickens family commode on display in the parents' bedroom lol. There are at least 4 floors. The kitchen, wine cellar, and "laundry room" are in the basement. You can download an audio guide to listen to while you walk through the house. It takes about 1.5 hours to get through the house but it depends on each person of course.There is a lovely cafe and outdoor seating there too. It's near Russell Square tube Station and about a 10 minute walk from there. It's also relatively close to the British Museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

An absolute must for any fan of Dickens. The house gives an insight into what his life was like once his works began to make money for him. More importantly, it gives a very real example as to how a middle class victorian would have lived. I was shocked at how much staff they had in what is, an average London home of that time before modern appliances. The museum does have wheel chair ramps but it's over 5 floors without a lift so unsure how helpful the ramps are. There is also a lovely cafe to relax and have a coffee. The staff was very friendly and helpful
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

An enchanting museum- like stepping back in time! My visit was on a glorious Summer's day, so I particularly enjoyed sitting in the tiny garden cafe to the rear of the property at the end of my visit. The house was beautifully kept with fascinating artefacts and family portraits. I would love to return to one of the Christmas events. If in the area I would also recommend The Foundling Museum. This is one of the best museums I've visited, on par with the Jane Austen museum in Bath. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. One tiny negative- I would have preferred a sandwich option in the cafe but the soup & bread was delicious

The museum itself is quite nice - perfect size and atmosphere, friendly and welcoming staff and a wonderful, engaging collection of Victorian-era treasures. The items in the home that belonged to Dickens were an absolute treat to see in person. Sadly, the gift shop is quite small and there’s not an awful lot of product selection. One of my favourite parts of visiting museums is browsing the gift shops and this one left me feeling underwhelmed. In the end, I only ended up purchasing a guide book.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

For someone who knows nothing about Dickens and who never had to read any of his books at school, the Dickens House Museum was both interesting, informative and engaging on all levels. Having gone on a HOT day it was super cool inside and gave us good tape from the sun whilst learning about the ins and outs of his home as well as the great man’s life. Of most interest was the fact that his father ended up in a debtor prison and the impact this had on his life as a whole and his works. Definitely worth the visit, and not an over subscribed tourist trap, thank god!

Lovely well maintained house that takes you through intimate details of the author's lifestyle and important life events through his writing and belongings. They also have a free audio tour that you can do through your phone. The school children trip clashing with my visit was the only unpleasant part about the experience as nearly all rooms had huge groups with guides delivering some sort of lecture, not leaving enough room or peace for museum visitors.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Visited early January, had been meaning going for a long time, after watching a movie about his life I decided to finally go. The house is well preserved, it projects the way they lived within the house very nicely and contains a good amount of his personal items along with many books. Upon entry you will be provided with an interesting information leaflet. Entry costs £9.50 but it’s free if you have the Art Fund card. If you want to buy souvenirs upon exit there is a shop. Worth visit especially if you are in the area.

We visited as a group for a work trip. Highly recommend a visit here. The interpretation is of high quality, using different form’s including written text, a free audio guide and leaflet, including a family trail. Loved visiting the rooms from the basement to the top floor. Highlight was seeing Charles Dickens clothes (so small), and his writing desk including pieces of his handwriting. Little hidden gem in London.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

This was an enlightening experience for us to be able to visit the home of one of Britain's greatest writers. The rooms are laid out as they would have been in Dickens' time there and it is easy to feel the family's presence there. The volunteers there are friendly and informative and pleased to be of help in describing life with the Dickens. Charles Dickens produced a lot of his major works here and it's possible to see and read pages of his actual hand written work. A worthwhile visit in our opinion.

I’m so glad I squeezed in the Housemaid’s Tour. I felt transported to the mid-1800s as the entertaining and engaging guide walked us through the artifact filled home while narrating stories and facts. I particularly liked the dining room and loved how she said she would not go east of the house after dark- east being Jack the Ripper territory. I would recommend this tour to others as I enjoyed it very much but note: it is not wheelchair accessible. Due to many stairs, the tour is for the able bodied.

Hats off to the Brits when it comes to preserving memories. Just a couple of pieces of the original furniture, and a lot of lovingly recreated ones, transport you to an actual home where the great man lived and wrote. But for the ticket you paid for, you'd feel like an intruder. The guides are really friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The gift shop..... I wouldn't rave about; but then, who needs a shop when three storeys of magic are waiting for you?!!! Been there. Done that. Be there. Do it.

My first time visiting, it had been in my ‘places to visit’ list for ever but I had never got around to going. I saw online that you could book A Handmaids Tour of his house for £15 so I did this one Sunday morning and it was wonderful. The actress playing the handmaid was excellent and really embraced the part and was very funny, engaging with everyone. The house has been preserved amazingly and everything is so tasteful. There is also a lovely cafe and a beautiful garden. Well worth a visit.

It was okay. I did learn a few things on Dickens that I didn't know before. It really brushes over a lot of the negative aspects of Dickens though, namely his affairs and unhappy marriage. There was a few things missing from the exhibit and the further upstairs you go, the more barren it becomes. I would set aside an hour and 100% use the free audio guide as this is really the biggest selling point.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Interesting museum for anyone that appreciates Charles Dickens works. Even though he only lived at this venue for 3 years, it was great to get insight into the author life at that time. Took us about an hour to go through the museum. It was not crowded, so we were able to take time in each room. Bonus - There were special exhibits in every room on London Fog and how it inspired Dickens.. Fascinating!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I love these little museums in London. Big enough that you learn something, small enough to not get bored! Good information on Charles Dickens, nice to see something personable about the author. We went on a Saturday morning and it wasn’t too busy. Wouldn’t recommend it though on a weekend if you plan on going to the British museum afterwards (the BM is packed on a weekend, with queues around the street!)
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Love this Museum. Charles lived there and it seems like they have preserved a good number of furniture and the original make up of the building structure. It was my second time there. I loved the room filled with poetry and the kitchen including the wine cellar. It takes back in time. There is also a reading room in the museum where you could read his books or yours. It’s on a quite street and the prices are super affordable. You should go visit history. Definitely worth it

Since my college Dickens course more than thirty years ago, I have dreamed of touring his home! And it was just as special as I hoped it would be. There were at least four very helpful volunteers available to answer questions, and we learned fascinating stories. Mr. Dickens rented the place for about £80 a month —which was a lot of money for that time!! Highly recommend.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I want to live there! Not just because of the beautiful furniture and the big house itself. The staff is the best! One of the gentlemans seems to totally in love with his job. It's a pleasure to hear him talking. Charles Dickens himself was quiet a person, too. The museum is very interesting and even suitable for children and foreigners (like me as a german person).
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

This is a really neat little museum to learn more about Charles Dickens, his family, and his legacy! I really enjoyed walking throughout the entire house, which was much larger than expected. What’s really handy is that they have a QR code with an audio tour handy to provide a voice over for each of the rooms, so bring along some headphones for a self guided tour!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I totally recommend this museum not only to everyone who reads Charles Dickens novels but also to English and culture literature (former) students which is my case. I've learned so much about that era! I also would like to thank to all volunteers. They were really nice to me and able to answer all my questions. One of my favorite museums in London for sure!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We went during the summer holidays and really enjoyed it. We'd booked our kids in for an arts and craft event they were running, and the kids really enjoyed it. The chap who was running it (Dan I think) was very good with them and got them writing, drawing and making things. The house itself was very interesting. If you have any interest in Dickens you'll be sure to enjoy it.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait

I will save you the expense, he lived there three years and died of a stroke, that is all you will learn. The building is sparse, with a limited number of actual belongings on display, there is no flow, there is no draw. Unless you get get the commentary on your phone, it will be one of the most boring things you will do in London.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

An excellently preserved and restored historic rendition of Charles Dickens home he moved into in his early twenties with his wife. The lower floors are most interesting as a period piece, with the upper floors showing more of Dickens character. The next door house has been converted into a museum and event space.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

A home and a Museum. One is struck by the ordinariness of this home occupied by Dickens for two years during his early career. However, at the time this home would have been considered very comfortable. Best to go during quiet weekdays as the home easily feels crowded with even just a dozen people in it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great visit. We went in April and did not wait to come inside. We visited the whole museum in about an hour but you can take your time with audio guides available on their website or via QR codes around the museum. There is also a café. (note it is children friendly with lots of activities for them)
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Really fun. Love how the actual home of Dickens is a walk-in museum and a tour through his personal life. Well done for kids too. Lots of stairs, no elevator, even though there is a ramp to the front door. Not handicapped friendly, sorry. Very pleasant cafe garden to sit and discuss your impressions
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Interesting to see the house that Dickens lived in, and many artifacts from his life. Our visit was made all the more interesting by the inspirational guide Peter Thompson. Thank you! There is also an exhibition about life in London - particularly the polution - at that time. Also there's a cafe and shop.
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I’m a massive Dickens fan, so slightly biased here. But this is one of the best museum experiences I’ve had. Every single member of staff knew their stuff and all went above and beyond to help navigate me and give me little insights into the life Dicken’s may have had here. And how beautifully kept it was. Lovely house, lovely staff, lovely area!

A memorable experience to visit the actual residence of a beloved writer. Rooms and personal belongings are preserved well. The staff is very cordial and will share few unknown stories and anecdotes. If you have a student art pass, you can visit for free.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Lovely little museum. Also great if your just interested in the architecture. Such a sweet house and filled with lovely illustrations and objects of note. Only down side was no options in the cafe for those that are lactose intellectual. But lovely.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A must-visit for any fan of Dickens or Victorian domestic life. It's so well preserved and really helps illustrate what life was like for the greatest writer ever. The cafe in the basement is really pleasant as well.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

The self guided map was utterly useless. Out of 20 or so locations we found 3 maybe 4. This could be avoided by taking a series of geotagged photos and publishing a web guide. I walked 540 miles in Spain and was able to relocate every place I stayed utilizing Google Maps More

Fantastic museum to visit, Loved having the audio guides and enjoyed learning about the history of Charles Dickens. I also enjoyed chatting to the volunteers too. Would highly recommend
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Wonderful experience! The museum brings you back in time and shows you how life must have looked like in those days. The museum also has a lovely cosy café where you can enjoy some nice refreshments. Definitely worth a visit! We enjoyed it very much!

Absolutely fascinating to see the desk upon which Dickens wrote Great Expectations (among other novels) and seeing the very mirrors where he acted out his characters as he wrote! And I enjoyed the audio tour which brought the experience alive.

This museum makes excellent use of the space and the layout is striking. We attended just after it had been decorated for Christmas which really helped us get into the festive feel. There aren’t too many artefacts but the way it is designed

Wandering through the home of Charles Dickens is not to be missed! It's remarkable how much was preserved. The museum is laid out thematically, and the presentations are really informative and imaginative. The special exhibit - London

Interesting place to see. One of Charles Dickens' houses: the desk he wrote all this masterpieces and the clock that inspired so many of this works.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A wonderful place to visit with much to see. Great time to visit as it was not busy. The staff are excellent and answered many of my questions. Be prepared to walk up several flights of stairs if you want to see the entire museum.

Very interesting step into the past. Small museum — won’t take you more than 1.5 hours. But worth the visit if you enjoy history, Charles Dickens’ writing, or even if you appreciate getting a peek inside an old London brownstone.

This is the perfect small museum to go through on a rainy morning. The staff and information about the exhibits are very informative. We learned new things about Charles Dickens and more about things we already knew a bit about.

Fabulous museum in Charles Dickens house. Set over 4 floors. Features Original furniture. No wheelchair access. Nice shop that sells all things Charles Dickens. Really nice cafe that is situated in a really pretty garden.

The staff are always happy to answer questions, the gift shop has interesting items and there was so much to see. Very glad I went.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Took a chance and turned up on the day. Unfortunately I shared my visit with a school party. Felt a bit rushed and claustrophobic so maybe I'll book ahead next time. What I did see was quite interesting though.

When you visit the house that Dickens lived in and wrote some major works you get a real insight into his world. It's also a superb Regency London town house from 1805. A warm welcome from knowledgeable staff.

Wonderful, immersive experience. Fantastic details. Transports you back to that time, as if you're in the Dickens household.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Awesome little museum! It wasn't super busy which was nice so we could get a real good look. The guide book is wonderful. Lots of Info. Definitely worth a trip. The Victoria sponge I'm the cafe was quit good

Lovely museum that was once Charles Dickens’s family home. Beautiful place with school children being guided through too.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A great place to visit if you're interested in Dickens or the history of London! Lovely staff and very knowledgeable.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

An excellent way to spend an hour. Very knowledgeable staff dotted around to give snippets of extra information too.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great Museum to learn more about one of the greatest novelists and life in Victorian time in UK. The cafe and the garden are very beautiful and perfect for a break so take your time when you visit!

Even if you have little knowledge about Charles Dickens, you should still come and visit. It will trigger your interest to Charles Dicken’s novels, his personality, his stories and his family!

Such a great museum. Every member of the staff is knowledgeable. The atmosphere, collections, and every room make you feel welcome and warm.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Stunning museum, it absolutely deserves a visit, everything is well finished and the audio guide is really interesting.
Visited on
Weekday
Reservation recommended
Yes

Visited on coronation day, so didn't pay the entrance fee. It's a charming little house with a nice tea room. Probably not enough here to justify the normal price though. More

It was great to explore on a rainy day. It was a last-minute decision to visit. I'm glad I did. Fascinating. There are so many interesting artefacts and personal belongings.

Very informative and a good lot to see within one of the houses he resided in. Definitely a lovely piece of history that's forever capsuled in this little townhouse. More

Interesting. Great staff. Easy to get through though lots of steps ( there is a lift)
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Busy house over 4 floors where the coveted writer once lived. Think it could do with more video screens depicting his life or showing his works adapted into movies.

Excellent audio guide, very good exhibition, hospitable staff.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A really interesting Museum. Well laid out and the audio gave great insight.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

Must visit for Dickens fans. An actual home of the Dickens family for 3 years.
Visited on…
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